How Long Can Submarines Stay Underwater? Insights into Nuclear and Diesel-Electric Subs
Discover how long submarines can stay underwater, comparing nuclear and diesel-electric types.
560 views
How long submarines spend underwater: Nuclear submarines can stay submerged for up to 90 days due to their on-board nuclear reactors and air purification systems. In contrast, diesel-electric submarines rely on battery power and must surface more frequently, typically every few days to weeks to recharge batteries and replenish air supplies.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the maximum duration for a nuclear submarine to remain submerged? Nuclear submarines can stay submerged for up to 90 days due to their on-board nuclear reactors.
- How do diesel-electric submarines differ in underwater duration? Diesel-electric submarines typically must surface every few days to weeks for battery recharging and air replenishment.
- What systems allow nuclear submarines to stay underwater for extended periods? Nuclear submarines utilize air purification systems and nuclear reactors to support long-term underwater missions.
- Can submarines operate without surfacing? Nuclear submarines can operate without surfacing for extended durations, while diesel-electric submarines must periodically resurface.